Well, in this post, I’ll try to give a logical explanation to your query.

I’ll also discuss the Pros, Cons, and alternatives of bass traps.

It has been a long journey as a soundproof consultant.

I started my career in this domain when soundproofing was just evolving.

Of course, at that time, noise pollution wasn’t a big issue.

Time has changed, and so has the requirement of the musician, content creators, etc.

People want to exploit the latest soundproof products to enhance the acoustical properties of the room to the maximum level.

As a newbie, it may sound very easy for you.

I was also at the same stage a decade ago.

Moreover, I used to think about what is there so hard in it.

You just need to install acoustic foam panels, soundproof curtains, soundproof blankets, door sweeps, etc., and you’re done.

Well, with a decade of experience, one thing I can definitely say is that soundproofing is NOT an art but a science.

The more you’ve worked on the basics the better you’ll perform.

• Every room is different so the requirements will also vary.
• But, there is one thing in common across the soundproofing industries.
• Can you guess?
• Anyways, no extra marks for guessing.
• In short, low-frequencies are the toughest to deal with when it comes to enhancing the acoustical properties of a room.
• I call ‘bass traps’ my secret weapon when it comes to combating the toughest frequencies.
• So, without any further ado, let’s do the ‘post-mortem’ of bass traps:)

Diving Deep into the Bass Traps

• If I’ve to define bass traps in a single line, then I’ll call it acoustic energy absorbers.
• I would request you take some time from your busy schedule and do some research on bass traps.
• You’ll find there are a few types of bass traps available on the market with a common mission to dampen low-frequencies.
• In the language of Physics, these traps use friction to convert sound waves of low frequencies into heat energy.
• If you’re worried that the friction will increase the temperature of your room, then let me tell you, the energy dissipated is very low, and by no means, it will impact the temperature in its vicinity.

Bass Traps Type

• Bass traps can be divided into two categories: resonant bass traps and porous bass traps.
• Resonant bass traps can be further divided into two categories: panel absorbers and Helmholtz resonators.
• The absorption spectrum is not the same for resonant and porous.
• The latter has a broader spectrum.
• Porous bass traps are made of materials such as fiberglass, mineral wool, open-cell foam, etc.
• There is no benchmark set for the acoustical properties.
• In fact, it’s a relative term.
• Every individual has their own preference.
• However, installing the bass traps can help you to live in an environment that is predictable and the acoustical parameters are under control.

Extended Discussion on Acoustic Foam

• The open-celled foam is used to treat acoustical problems that go along with the different levels of frequencies.
• In the technical term, the foam works as a catalyst “friction” and increases the air resistance which results in reduced wave amplitude.
• The foam has different thicknesses and quite a few foam products are treated with fire retardants and dyes to make it consumer-friendly.
• The acoustical foam can be installed at the doors, walls, and even ceilings.
• No matter where you place it, you’ll find a reduction in echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
• The foam is made of lightweight materials such as polyurethane and melamine.
• Polyurethane is made of polyester or polyether.

Extended Discussion on Foam Bass Traps

• Foam bass trap falls under the porous absorber category.
• The absorbs the sound and converts the velocity of sound into heat using friction.
• There is a difference between sound absorbing and soundproofing. 
• In the case of sound-absorbing, the acoustical properties will improve, but there will not be any blocking of noise.
• For example, echoes, vibrations, and reverbs will be neutralized, but the sound coming from outside will not be blocked.
• Bass frequencies lower than 100 Hz are harder to absorb.
• In fact, low-frequency has the capability to travel through solid materials.
• The low-frequency travels longer as compared to mid-size and high frequencies.

Pros and Cons of Foam Bass Traps

Pros:

Enhance the acoustical properties of the room by reducing the echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
Budget-friendly
Available in different shapes and sizes
Also, available in a variety of colors
Sync with the decor of your room

Cons

Don’t have the capability to block the sound
It catches fire and releases lots of smoke making the condition worst

Do Foam Bass Trap Works?

• The answer is “Yes”.
• Foam bass traps are one of the cheapest ways to improve the acoustical properties of your room.
• These foams are a great way to combat echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
• On the downside, it can’t block external noise(traffic noise) or airborne noise(noise produced by household appliances).
• The good news is that these foams are very cheap and whatever is the current acoustic condition of your room, it will definitely enhance the acoustical properties.
• In short, you’ve nothing to lose.
• It’s a win-win situation.
• However, if the foam bass trap is not hitting the core of your problem, then I’ve something enticing for you.
• Moving further, I’ll walk you through some of the alternatives that may be of interest.

Foam Bass Traps Alternatives

• In case, you want to combat high-frequencies, then you can nail thick carpets on the wall.
• It really works, but at the same time, it doesn’t absorb sound.
• You can also staple cup holders to the wall.
• It’s something unusual still the outcome is promising.
• Again, cup holders also don’t deal with the low frequencies.
• Egg crate foam is also a good option to deal with high frequencies.
• Unfortunately, these crates don’t have the required thickness so, it may not alone be sufficient to suffice your requirement.
• As a soundproof consultant, it is really important for me to inform you about some of the cheap alternatives to foam bass traps.
• These alternatives may take a considerable amount of time with little to no outcome.
• As a newbie, you may get attracted to the low-cost temporary solution, but I never recommend any of my clients to ever go for a short-term solution.
• It’s a complete waste of money.
• Always try for a durable, efficient, and permanent solution.
• By the way, a permanent solution doesn’t always mean high-end products.
• Having a sound knowledge about the domain, and spending some time doing research can help you to find a budget-friendly, yet highly effective solution.
• However, in the case of foam bass traps, I’ve already put in enough effort for you 🙂
• In the next section, I’m gonna discuss the best alternative to foam bass traps.
• Seems Interesting?

The Best Alternative to Foam Bass Traps

• As I’ve discussed previously, the bass traps are divided into two main categories: resonant and porous.
• They perform superlatively when they work as a team.
• Combining diaphragmatic absorbers with porous ones can give you the optimum result.
• I’ve personally experienced in a good number of projects that combinations are the key to success.
• In case, you’re planning to install resonant absorbers, then I would recommend you to get in touch with a soundproof consultant to get your room evaluated.
• A professional can guide you through the process of building a trap exclusive to the room.
• On the downside, if the installation isn’t done properly then it may lead to aggravating the problem rather than acting as a solution.
• The most common issue that arises due to the wrong fix is resonating at the wrong frequencies.
• I always bet high on porous solutions.
• Other than foam, these traps can also be made of fiberglass and wood. The latter performs better against the frequencies.
• In fact, you’ve lots of options to deal with any noise-related problem. The only thing you need to have is a decent knowledge of the subject.
• They are of two types: Flat panel bass traps and Triangular corner bass traps.
• The good thing about the corner bass trap is that they are massive and carry weight and density. 
• The higher the density the better the performance.

It’s A Wrap

• These foam bass traps are one of the cheapest, yet most effective ways to combat low frequencies.
• Though there are many cheap alternatives such as egg crates, cup holders, etc.
• I would recommend you give foam bass traps a shot.
• In fact, I’m really skeptical about the performance of some of the alternatives to foam bass traps.
• It goes without saying that the foam bass traps are good at combating echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
• I’ve highlighted the pros as well as cons of the foam bass traps, and now it’s your turn to take a call. Have you ever tried foam bass traps?
• Did you find an effective alternative to it?
• Well, let me know about your ways to combat echoes, reverbs, and vibrations.
• I’m sure my readers will definitely appreciate it.
• Last but not least, in case, you’ve liked the article, feel free to share it with your friends and family.
• Sharing is Caring.

[Also Read]

• Best Bass Traps
• Auralex Bass Traps Review
• Mass Loaded Vinyl